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Researchers have found that efforts to make prekindergarten programs free and universal could have different outcomes on students depending on the economic background of the family. In a paper delivered to the recent 2013 Brookings Panel on Economic Activity, researchers who studied model programs in Oklahoma and Georgia found that access to free preschool by students from low-income backgrounds resulted in higher participation rates in preschool, more quality time with mothers, such as time spent reading, and midterm academic gains. For students from higher-income families who opted for the free programs, there were "no positive impacts on student achievement."

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A family-focused prekindergarten program offered in some New York City schools has reduced the achievement gap among minority students and those from low-income families, according to a study in JAMA Pediatrics. Data show students in schools using the ParentCorps program in pre-K had 50% lower odds of developing mental health issues and better academic performance by second grade.

Race gaps in the quality of prekindergarten programs are significant, according to an analysis of programs in 11 states compiled with data from the National Center for Early Development & Learning. White students, data show, are the only racial group not receiving below-average pre-K education.

An additional 50,000 students in New York City have been enrolled in prekindergarten since the start of universal, free pre-K education to all students. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who spearheaded the program, said he expects it will only continue to grow.

Officials in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg, N.C., school district say they are considering expanding calendars at nine schools -- taking a cue from other districts in the state that have adopted year-round schedules. Supporters say the schedule is beneficial to students and teachers, who get more frequent breaks. Critics, however, say implementation of such schedules often is tricky depending on the model adopted.

As more than a dozen states have agreed to spend more on early childhood education and research illustrates the effectiveness of such programs, their popularity is booming. Nearly 1 million children now attend state-funded preschool, up more than 30% in five years, according to advocacy group Pre-K Now.